Saratoga Gap Long Ridge

Hike Host: Sonya M

Saratoga Gap Open Space Preserve is a 1,600-acre outdoor adventure located at the junction of Highway 35 and Highway 9 in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Attractive moss-covered trees, lichen-covered boulders and sandstone rock outcrops add to the scenic value of this area.

With options for short hikes, rides to scenic overlooks, and longer loop trips, Long Ridge Open Space Preserve provides something for everyone. Connecting to Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve by one of the longest continuous segments of the Bay Area Ridge Trail.

The Hike

This loop is a good mix of shaded trails and points where you’re walking across an open hillside with views. Traversing two open space preserves (Saratoga Gap and Long Ridge) this trail travels along both the Skyline to the Sea trail, and the Bay Area Ridge Trail – two iconic trails in the Bay Area. You will pass Two Moon Lake along the way, a pretty, small lake.

Difficulty: Level 3 Challenging | Miles: 10.2 miles | Elevation: 1,440 ft ft

Getting There
(click for directions)

From San Jose, take 280 N for 9 miles, take exit 13 to Foothill Expressway. Take Foothill Blvd to Stevens Canyon Rd. Continue for 17 miles. Turn left onto redwood Gulch Rd. After 1.4 miles turn sharp right to CA-9 (Big Basin Way). Destination will be on the left in 6.1 miles, just past Hwy 35.

Drive Time: 35 minutes from San Jose

Know Before you go

Dogs not allowed.